Question 1

Which of the following best describes the main tissue type composing the epidermis, and what is its primary function?

Accepted Answer

Keratinized stratified squamous epithelium; provides a protective barrier against environmental damage.

Question 2

A patient presents with a burn that is red, painful, and shows blistering. Which degree of burn is most likely, and which layers of skin are affected?

Accepted Answer

Second-degree burn; affects the epidermis and upper dermis.

Question 3

Which of the following is NOT a function of the skin?

Accepted Answer

Synthesis of vitamin C.

Question 4

A patient with a suspicious mole is evaluated using the A-B-C-D rule. Which characteristic is most concerning for melanoma?

Accepted Answer

Diameter greater than 6 mm.

Question 5

Which gland is primarily responsible for thermoregulation through sweat production, and where is it most abundant?

Accepted Answer

Eccrine (merocrine) gland; abundant on palms, soles, and forehead.

Question 6

A patient with liver disease develops a yellowish tint to their skin. Which pigment is most likely responsible for this change?

Accepted Answer

Bilirubin accumulation due to impaired liver function.

Question 7

Which layer of the epidermis is responsible for ongoing cell division and regeneration?

Accepted Answer

Stratum basale

Question 8

A surgeon plans an incision parallel to cleavage lines in the skin. What is the main advantage of this approach?

Accepted Answer

The wound will heal with less scarring due to minimal disruption of collagen fibers.

Question 9

Which of the following best explains why third-degree burns are life-threatening?

Accepted Answer

They destroy the full thickness of the skin, leading to fluid loss and increased risk of infection.

Question 10

Which cell type in the epidermis is primarily responsible for immune defense against pathogens?

Accepted Answer

Dendritic cells

Question 11

A person with fair skin appears pinkish after exercise. Which pigment is responsible for this color change?

Accepted Answer

Hemoglobin

Question 12

Which of the following best describes the difference between eccrine and apocrine sweat glands?

Accepted Answer

Eccrine glands secrete watery sweat for cooling; apocrine glands secrete thicker sweat in axillary/genital areas.

Question 13

Which structure anchors the skin to underlying muscles and provides insulation?

Accepted Answer

Hypodermis (subcutaneous layer)

Question 14

A patient presents with a rapidly growing, scaly lesion on the scalp that has begun to ulcerate. Which type of skin cancer is most likely?

Accepted Answer

Squamous cell carcinoma

Question 15

Which of the following is a metabolic function of the skin?

Accepted Answer

Synthesis of vitamin D from cholesterol upon exposure to UV light.

Question 16

A patient with a third-degree burn over 20% of their body is at risk for which of the following complications? Use the Rule of Nines to estimate fluid loss.

Accepted Answer

Severe dehydration due to loss of the skin's barrier function.

Question 17

Which layer of the dermis contains capillaries and sensory receptors, and is composed of areolar connective tissue?

Accepted Answer

Papillary layer

Question 18

Which accessory structure of the skin is responsible for producing sebum, and what is its main function?

Accepted Answer

Sebaceous gland; lubricates and waterproofs the skin.

Question 19

A patient with a genetic defect in collagen synthesis would most likely have abnormalities in which layer of the skin?

Accepted Answer

Reticular layer of the dermis

Question 20

Which of the following best explains why elderly individuals are more prone to skin injuries and infections?

Accepted Answer

Aging leads to thinner skin, reduced collagen and elastic fibers, and decreased immune cell activity.

Chapter 5 – The Integumentary System: Structure, Function, and Clinical Relevance

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